Editor:
Attending the Canada Day events in Ottawa over the weekend was more than one could imagine.
July 1 was also my 85th birthday, the tour a present from my family.
The 144th anniversary of the nation – celebrated with the presence of William and Catherine, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge – was amazing.
Visiting all the structures: Parliament Buildings, Senate, Peace Tower, gracefully guided by legislative assistant Lauren Hurst, who calls me Grandpa.
To be able to see the exclusive decor of the structures. Standing in the House of Commons, walking into the Senate chambers, followed by a ride in the elevator to the top floor of the Peace Tower. Sipping coffee in the cafeteria normally only for Members of Parliament.
Walking around on Parliament Hill makes one proud to be a Canadian.
Hearing the honour guards on the day the royal couple were visiting – as one of the 350,000 – and seeing a flash of them through the open window of their car was a thrill.
Visiting the War Museum, Canada Aviation Museum, the Mint. Touring through the city along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River, driving through Carleton University.
Ottawa is a beautiful city with so much history.
Suan H. Booiman, White Rock